Let me tell you about a small problem I encountered at the Gourmand Market last Saturday. Gathered in the food fair were around 40 amazing food booths, but unfortunately, I only had one stomach to fill. It was not an incredibly tiny stomach, but the capacity was limited. 

I had to curate my meal based on sight, smell,and instincts.

The Gourmand Market is known for bringing together the best food merchants around the Metro. The first one happened last year, and it got the whole town buzzing and eating. This year’s version was no different. There was something interesting stall after stall after stall, from vendors selling organic produce to healthy cocktails to mouthwatering sweets.

The 3-day event was organized by Nawwty’s Kitchen and co-presented by Globe. It was set-up right outside the Central Square mall in BGC. Everything looked like it came straight out of Pinterest. All the booths had a boho vibe. The organizers really worked hard in giving the event a community feel, and that made everything very special.

In case you missed the fair, you don’t need to wait for the next one to catch the best goodies in town. We’ve compiled a list of our favorites and where to catch them now. 

The Bellini Bar

The first thing we bought in the market is a Mimosa (PHP150)  from the Bellini Bar. It was the perfect welcome drink! Their Mimosa was well-balanced, neither too sweet nor too strong. In case you have a kid with you or if you’re watching your alcohol intake, they can also do virgin cocktails. They told us that they do catering and events too! It would be a fun addition to your next party. Follow them on Instagram or Facebook.

Ebeneezers

Before you do your little celebratory dance, let me emphasize that this is not the popular Hongkong kebab and pizza franchise. They just happen to have the same name. However, Ebeneezersmnl is just as wonderful. They gave the classic shawarma an upgrade and an interstingly healthy twist. They’re proud of using healthy and organic items and premium ingredients. Our recommendation? Get the Halal lamb shawarma (PHP220). They have a permanent spot at the Fort and the second floor is a bar! G/F Net Quad Building, 30th St. Cor 4th Ave, BGC, Taguig City; Facebook. +63 915 1524011.

Truffles & More

Two words: Truffle popcorn (PHP150). It’s the perfect movie snack. I brought one with me when we went to see Zootopia, and it was so addicting. Their popcorn had just the right amount of white truffle oil and truffle salt. You can even just buy a bottle of their truffle oil and make the popcorn yourself. Their products are available at Epicurious in Shangri-La Mall. 1011 – 1012, East Wing Building Shangri – La Mall, EDSA Corner Shaw Blvd, Mandaluyong; +63 2 5707741. 11am-9pm

The Bad Apple

The Bad Apple is the Pinoy version of the popular American dessert, and it is the perfect way to reach your daily quota of fruit. They serve apples dipped in caramel sauce covered in a variety of sweets, pretzels, biscuits and other goodies. They will gladly slice up the apple for you for easier eating. But honestly, it’s better to eat it the messy way. Get the chocolate-pretzel flavor (PHP160), the sweetness and the crunch will party in your mouth. Follow them on Instagram. They occassionally pop-up at the Salcedo Market and at the Pioneer Market. 

Mister Delicious

I dare say that Mr. Delicious offers the best Reuben Sandwiches in Manila. Their Pastrami Reuben (PHP450) perfectly matches a bottle of craft beer. In a country where good sandwiches are rare, Mister Delicious easily stands out. Thankfully, they have a permanent spot in Hole-in-the Wall in Century Mall. L4, Century City Mall, Kalayaan Ave, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila. 11am-11pm. 

The Backyard farms

When it comes to good food, picking the best ingredients matter. And the best really do come from GMO-free and chemical-free produce. Get your stock of healthy pasture-raised chickens (PHP360) and organic black and red rice (PHP110 per kilo) from the Backyard farms. They’re kid friendly and not too burdensome on the pocket. It’s a good investment for your health. Your future self will thank you. You can order their items from their Instagram.